Manistee River Trail

I have spring fever and backpacking has been on my mind. One of my favorite hikes is the Manistee River Trail. The scenery is beautiful, the camping spots are great and the distance is up to you. You can choose to do a 20 mile loop by adding in the North Country Trail (NCT), or just hike in so many miles and camp for a night or two, and hike back out.

Information and Directions to the Trailheads
Printable Trail Map
NCT Map MI-05
DNR Site

The NCT side of the loop has its ups and downs. There is no water access on the NCT and it is physically challenging, but you will have a sense of accomplishment, solidarity, and a great workout.

On the NCT side, there are 15 miles of new trail north of the Hodenpyl Dam! This trail is on my list of places to hike for 2011. Maps and information can be found here:
Guide-to-Hodenpyl-Reroute

Jordan River Valley Pathway

Another great Michigan hike is the Jordan River Valley Pathway.  You can choose from a short 3-mile loop around Deadman's Hill or a moderate to challenging 18-mile loop on the Jordan River Pathway and North Country Trail.

Sign at Deadman's Hill Scenic Overlook Parking Lot

Check out this link for information on what to expect and how to get there:
Jordan River Pathway Loop Hike

Maps: Maps and Trail Data

Historic Post Marker

Along the trail we saw posts with numbers on them, but didn't know what they were for.  My Dad and I bumped into some people who told us each post explained some historic information about each area and that we could get a pamphlet from the DNR.
It would have been nice to have this with us on our hike, and I will be sure to take it in the future: Numbered Posts - Scenic, biological, and historic markers

Campsite at Pinney Bridge
Campground

Pinney Bridge Campground:  This is a hike or canoe in campground.  It has potable water (hand pump water well), 15 tent sites with picnic tables, outhouses, and fire rings.  There is a $15/night camping fee.  It is self-registration and you can deposit cash or checks.

This link previews Jim DuFresne's book related to the Jordan River Pathway, look at pages 98-104. I recommend purchasing this book for this hike, and other Michigan hikes: Backpacking in Michigan

Oct 2010 - Colors are beautiful

Landslide Overlook

My Dad and Chopper

Saw a lot of different mushrooms

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan's Upper Peninsula has spectacular views.  It is located on the shore of Lake Superior and is a GREAT place for backpacking. I highly recommend spending some time out there and if possible hiking the entire 42 miles.  Pictured Rocks is part of the North Country Trail and is located between Munising and Grand Marais.  The sightseeing is amazing!  From sandstone cliffs, sandy beaches, rivers, bald eagles, and the ever so beautiful backcountry.

Must see links if you are planning a trip:

Park Website

Maps and GPS coordinates

Mileage Map

Google Earth Tour of our Hike: